Gorilla Suit Day is a quirky and fun holiday celebrated every year on January 31. It encourages people to don gorilla suits, embrace their wild side, and revel in the absurdity of life. Originally created by cartoonist Don Martin for MAD Magazine in 1963, this day has grown into a lighthearted tradition for fans of humor and creativity.
Quick Facts
- When is it? January 31
- Tagged as: Costume, Fun, Humor
- What’s the hashtag? #GorillaSuitDay
- When was it founded? 1963
- Who founded it? Don Martin
History of Gorilla Suit Day
Gorilla Suit Day traces its origins to a comic strip by Don Martin in MAD Magazine. The comic humorously depicted a character mocking the fictitious holiday, only to be hilariously assaulted by gorillas and people in gorilla suits. Over time, fans of Don Martin and MAD Magazine embraced the idea, turning it into an annual celebration. The holiday also honors the history of gorilla suits in pop culture, which began with Carlos Cruz Gemora’s realistic designs in the 1920s for Hollywood films.
Timeline
- 1920s: Carlos Cruz Gemora creates the first realistic gorilla suit for movies.
- 1963: Don Martin introduces Gorilla Suit Day in his MAD Magazine comic strip.
- 1980s: Gorilla suits gain popularity in costume parties and events.
- 2000s: The Denver Gorilla Run sets a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people in gorilla suits.
Gorilla Suit Day Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 31 | Friday |
| 2026 | January 31 | Saturday |
| 2027 | January 31 | Sunday |
| 2028 | January 31 | Monday |
| 2029 | January 31 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | January 31 | Thursday |
Observed: Gorilla Suit Day
Gorilla Suit Day is observed with creativity and humor.
- Wear a Gorilla Suit: The most iconic way to celebrate is to dress up in a gorilla suit. Whether at work or home, it’s sure to bring smiles and laughter.
- Host a Jungle Party: Organize a jungle-themed gathering with friends and family, complete with banana-shaped decorations and costumes.
- Dive Into Pop Culture: Explore MAD Magazine comics or watch classic movies featuring gorillas to appreciate this day’s origins.
Fun Facts About Gorilla Suit Day
- The Denver Gorilla Run holds the record for the largest gathering of people dressed as gorillas.
- The Phoenix Suns’ mascot, “Go,” started as a performer in a gorilla suit delivering telegrams.
- In 2011, someone dressed as a banana tackled a person in a gorilla suit for fun!
Quiz
- Who created Gorilla Suit Day?
- In which magazine did Gorilla Suit Day first appear?
- What year was the first realistic gorilla suit made?
- What is the hashtag used for this holiday?
- What world record is associated with gorilla suits?
(Answers: 1) Don Martin; 2) MAD Magazine; 3) 1920s; 4) #GorillaSuitDay; 5) Largest gathering of people in gorilla suits)
FAQs
- What is Gorilla Suit Day? It’s a humorous holiday where people wear gorilla suits and celebrate absurdity.
- When is it celebrated? Annually on January 31.
- Who started this holiday? Cartoonist Don Martin through MAD Magazine.
- Can I celebrate without a full costume? Yes! Masks or partial costumes work too.
- Why do people love this day? It’s fun, creative, and brings laughter.
Importance of Gorilla Suit Day
- Celebrates Creativity: This day encourages people to think outside the box and express themselves through costumes and humor.
- Brings People Together: Dressing up as gorillas fosters unity and camaraderie among participants.
- Honors Pop Culture History: It pays homage to classic Hollywood films and MAD Magazine’s legacy.
Related
- National Costume Day
- World Gorilla Day (September 24)
- National Fun at Work Day